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The Modem is not Responding

Problem: Error 630: The modem is busy or not responding. The computer is not receiving a response from the modem. The port was disconnected due to hardware failure.

Operating Systems: Windows XP, 2000, ME, 98 & NT; Macintosh OS X, OS 8-9

Microsoft Ref: Q190554: How to Troubleshoot Modem Problems in Windows 98/98 Second Edition, Q184086: Phone Company Services May Disrupt Modem Functionality

This type of error can indicate that the modem is damaged, not connected, or not installed properly. This error may occur if you have special telephone company provided features such as distinctive dial tone [or] dial tone stuttering, signaling voice-mail services and so on. This error can also occur if your modem has a bad initialization string - i.e., a command that it does not support. If there have been electrical disturbances (including thunderstorms or power failure/surges) since the last time the modem worked, that may be the cause.

Check that the modem is connected and installed properly

If you have an external modem, make sure that the cable is connected, and that the modem is powered on.

Check for updated drivers for your modem on the website of your computer manufacturer if the modem came with the computer or the modem manufacturer's site.

For both internal and external modems, check that the modem is installed correctly. Check for conflicts in Device Manager. If there are any yellow question marks (?) or exclamation points (!), correct them first. Go to the Modem Control Panel. If you see modems other than the one currently installed, select and remove them one at a time. You may need to reboot before proceeding. Click on the Diagnostics tab, select your modem, and then click More Information or Query Modem. If you find errors listed here, you have a driver problem likely from remnants of an old driver. Check with the manufacturer of any old modems that were used on the machine for driver removal instructions.

Windows:

Open the Control Panel and double click the Modems icon. If necessary, click the Modems tab. Your modem should be listed. If the modem is listed as a Standard Modem, you may need to consult your modem documentation or computer manufacturer to install proper drivers for the modem. If the proper modem is listed, query the modem. If you get errors, there may be remnants of an old driver on you system. To remove the driver, check the manufacturer's website for instructions.

Windows XP & 2000

• Highlight your modem and click the Properties button.
• Click the Diagnostics tab.
• Click the Query Modem button.
• If the modem is functioning properly, you should now see commands and responses in the box.

Windows 98 & ME

• Click the Diagnostics tab.
• Highlight the COM port where your modem is installed and click the More Info button.

  Note: If the modem is listed multiple times, or if more than one device is installed on that COM port, this may be the cause of the problem. Consult your modem documentation or computer manufacturer for further support.

• If the modem is functioning properly, a window will pop up showing more information about the modem, including commands and responses.

Check that the correct modem is chosen in the dialup connection:

Windows XP & 2000

• Open the Control Panel and open the Network and Dialup Connections or Network Connections icon
• If necessary, select the correct modem in the Connect using option and click OK.

Windows ME & 98

• Open the Control Panel and double click the Internet Options icon.
• Click the Connections tab, highlight your VISP Data Not Found